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Dear Daniela,
Escape the winter chills and head off to a land of mystery and
allure. With its sunny skies, desert sand dunes, and sparkling
oases, Tunisia is sure to warm bodies, hearts and spirits. In this
inaugural newsletter issue, we spice things up, explore the exotic
and captivating nature of this spectacular destination, and show you
just how we can help cure those winter blues.
Recipe Of
The Month
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Tunisian Couscous Couscous is a delicious
traditional meal of North Africa prepared as either a main
dish or a side. This particular entree is an authentic
Tunisian specialty which can be served up as a main course.
Create different variations by alternating with a medley of
meats including lamb, beef, pork or chicken, or prepare with
fish or simply vegetables. Feel free to add more spices if you
prefer something with a little more fire. Enjoy!
*1 lb meat or fish, cubed
*1 lb uncooked couscous
*4
tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
*2 onions, diced
*2
green peppers, cubed
*2 potatoes, cubed
*2 carrots,
finely chopped
*1 zucchini, cubed
*1 can chickpeas
*4 tablespoons tomato paste
*1 tablespoon chili powder
or “harissa”
*salt and pepper for seasoning
*½
tablespoon paprika
*½ tablespoon cinnamon
*½ tablespoon
cumin
Season the meat or fish with spices and add to a
pot with olive oil and onions. Sautee on low-medium heat for 5
mins, then add the tomato paste, chickpeas and a cup of water.
Let boil for 15 minutes. Add cut vegetables to pot and stir in
1 litre of water. Bring to boil.To prepare the couscous add
equal parts of water to cousucous in a separate pot and bring
to boil. (Add a pinch of salt when water comes to boil.) When
water has reached boiling point, stir in couscous, cover, and
remove from heat. Wait 5 -7 mins for couscous to set and fluff
with fork. Add the potatoes to the sauce and continue cooking
for another 20 mins. Transfer couscous into a large bowl, pour
some sauce over it and stir. Arrange vegetables and meat as
desired. Bon Appetit!
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A & L's Top 5
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#5 A Hollywood Experience
Explore the
desert locations near Toseur which have been the setting of
some of Hollywood's best movies such as "Star Wars", "Indiana
Jones - Raiders of the Lost Ark" and "The English
Patient".
#4 Venture Across the Chott El Jarid
An
awe-inspiring sight, this expansive lake is the largest salt
pan of the sahara and can be traversed either by foot, 4 X 4
vehicle or camel.
#3 Pamper Yourself at a Luxurious
Hammam
Immerse yourself in the lap of luxury at one
of Tunisia's many health spas and Hammams. Feel like a Roman
god or goddess as the hot spring waters wash your cares
away.
#2 A Nomadic Camel Trek
Experience the
life of the Berbers as you journey over golden sand dunes on
an exciting camel trek into the desert. Marvel at glimpses of
sparkling oases and indulge in the sun's glorious rays as you
cross this breath-taking natural wonder.
#1 Hot Air Balloon Ride over the
Sahara
What could be more exhilarating than
floating over the golden sand dunes of the sahara in your very
own hot air balloon? Capture the spectacular solitude of the
desert while sipping champagne or a cool mint tea.
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Happy Travels! Daniela Masaro, Editor Arts
& Leisure Tours
TICO Registration:
4617965//04175246
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Letters Home
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For years
I had been trying to convince my husband that we needed to get
away for a much needed rest and holiday. I had always had
visions of sand dunes and camels, colourful markets and exotic
scents but I knew it would be a stretch to get him anywhere
like that. After researching Tunisia I thought it was perfect.
Seducing him with scenes from Star Wars (he's a huge fan) I
finally managed to get him to agree to take me away but he
refused to set a date. I was pleasantly surprised a couple of
weeks later, when on our 25th wedding anniversary, he handed
me our travel package to Tunisia. As soon as we stepped off
the plane I breathed in the hot desert air and sighed a breath
of relief. It was everything I dreamed of and more. We
explored ancient ruins and fantastic museums and I picked up
some great finds at the many local markets. After 25 years of
marriage we knew we needed some free time to ourselves as
well, so while he enjoyed a round of golf, I indulged myself
in hot springs and spa treatments at a fabulous Hammam. I was
in paradise and left feeling like a new woman. With a spring
in my step I returned to our hotel to get ready for dinner.
That evening, as we gazed across the table at each other
lovingly, I felt giddy and excited, like we were dating all
over again and realized that this mysterious land had changed
us both for the better. I just wanted to write to you and
thank the Arts & Leisure Tours team for helping us
rekindle our passion and for opening up the world to us. We
are ever so grateful.
Sincerely,
Jane & Martin Douglas
If you
have travelled with us before and have a story and photos to
share with us and our readers, please email us at
lettershome@artsandleisuretours.com. We'd love to hear from
you. Our Other Bravo - Independent Explorations
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